Definition

Kawasaki disease is an illness that affects young children. It causes irritation and swelling of the skin, mouth, and lymph nodes. More serious illness can also lead to swelling in the coronary arteries. These arteries supply oxygen to the heart. The swelling can cause serious heart problems like a weakening of blood vessel walls (
aneurysm
) and heart attack.

Treatment

Kawasaki will go away on its own. However, treatment can help to limit the damage the illness does. The sooner Kawasaki disease is treated, the better the outcome. Treatment is especially important to reduce risk of damage to the heart.

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for your child. Treatment options include the following:

Intravenous Gamma Globulin

Gamma globulin naturally occurs in the body. It is a protein that helps your body fight infections. This treatment provides a concentrated dose of gamma globulin. It is passed into your bloodstream through an IV.

This treatment may decrease the risk of heart complications. It is most effective when given early in the illness, ideally the first 10 days.

Aspirin

High doses of aspirin may also be advised. Aspirin may help to manage symptoms by:

Preventing the formation of blood clots

Reducing fever

Easing joint swelling

Treating rashes

Note

: If your child is given aspirin therapy and develops symptoms of a viral infection, especially
chickenpox
, call the doctor about stopping aspirin therapy. Aspirin has been associated with
Reye's syndrome
, a potentially fatal condition.

Other Medications

Steroid or joint inflammation medication may also be recommended. They may be used if inflammation cannot be controlled with other treatments.

If heart complications develop, they will need to be treated. Specific treatment will depend on the specific problem.

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